[CHAPTER VII.]
GRANNY'S REVENGE.
The half dozen pretty young girls who served for Miss Bray were light-hearted, hopeful young creatures in spite of their poverty, and at their daily work they sociably discussed their personal affairs with the freedom and intimacy of friends. Beaus and dress were the choice topics just as in higher circles of society. Liane Lester was the only quiet one among them, granny's edicts barring her both from lovers and finery.
Dolly Dorr was turning them all green with envy the next morning by boasting of the attentions she had received from the grand Mr. Devereaux, when one of the girls, Lottie Day, interposed:
"He is not likely to call on you again very soon, for I heard Brother Tom saying at breakfast this morning that Mr. Devereaux had broken his arm by a fall last night."
A chorus of compassionate remarks followed this announcement, and Dolly exclaimed vivaciously:
"I wish I might be allowed to nurse the poor fellow!"
Nan Brooks replied chaffingly:
"Miss Roma Clarke might have some objection to that scheme. They say she is engaged to him."